The Afenifere group, led by Adebanjo, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its handling of the economy and the repression of citizens protesting against deteriorating economic conditions.
Justice Faloye, the National Publicity Secretary of the faction, expressed his discontent during an interview with Arise News, asserting that the government’s actions are akin to economic sabotage masked as reforms.
Faloye voiced concerns about the authoritarian approach being adopted, likening the current situation to the oppressive days of military ruler Sani Abacha. “If we’re not careful, we are heading back to the era of Abacha,” he warned.
He called for the immediate release of protesters imprisoned for treason, emphasizing that even in cases of violent protests, charges should reflect actual actions rather than stifling dissent. “Who is truly treasonable here?” he questioned, pointing to the economic sabotage facing Nigerians.
Faloye further criticized the government’s inability to reduce the nation’s heavy reliance on petrol imports, which constitute 55% of Nigeria’s import bill. He lamented that despite promises of improvement, the situation remains unchanged.
“Our main issue is the importation of petrol. With over $20 billion invested in refineries, we should see progress. Instead, we hear promises about Dangote’s refineries, leaving the public frustrated,” he stated.
He urged the government to clearly define the industries expected to thrive under its purported economic reforms, arguing that without addressing the pressing issues of high petrol imports, citizens will continue to struggle.
